Category Archives: Drugs and Medicines

Azelastine HCl ophthalmic

Azelastine HCl ophthalmic

Drug Name Azelastine HCl ophthalmic

Azelastine HCl ophthalmic Drug Category AZELASTINE – OPHTHALMIC

Azelastine HCl ophthalmic Drug Information

IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug. AZELASTINE – OPHTHALMIC (azz-ELL-ust-een) COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Optivar USES: This medication is used to treat itching of the eyes caused by allergies (allergic conjunctivitis). HOW TO USE: This medication is used in the affected eye(s), usually twice daily; or as directed by your doctor. Remove contact lenses before applying the eye drop. Wait at least 10 minutes after using this medication before inserting contact lenses. To apply eye drops, wash your hands first. To avoid contamination, do not touch the dropper tip or let it touch your eye or any other surface. Tilt your head back, gaze upward and pull down the lower eyelid to make a pouch. Place the dropper directly over the eye and instill the prescribed number of drops. Look downward and gently close your eye for 1 to 2 minutes. Place one finger at the corner of the eye near the nose and apply gentle pressure. This will prevent the medication from draining away from the eye. Try not to blink and do not rub the eye. Do not rinse the dropper. Replace the dropper cap after use. If you are using another kind of eye medication (e.g., drops or ointments), wait at least five minutes before applying other medications. Use eye drops before eye ointments, to allow the eye drops to enter the eye. SIDE EFFECTS: Eye irritation or stinging, headaches, or bitter taste in the mouth may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, including: allergies (especially drug allergies). If you wear contact lenses, consult your doctor about the use of contact lenses when the eyes are red or irritated. Because your vision may be temporarily blurred or decreased after using this medication, use caution driving or performing activities requiring clear vision. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Because of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding. DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use, especially of: other eye medications. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval. OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. NOTES: Do not share this medication with others. MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up. STORAGE: Store dropper bottle upright at room temperature between 36 and 77 degrees F (2 to 25 degrees C) away from light and moisture.

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Azelastine HCl nasal

Azelastine HCl nasal

Drug Name Azelastine HCl nasal

Azelastine HCl nasal Drug Category AZELASTINE NASAL

Azelastine HCl nasal Drug Information

IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug. AZELASTINE NASAL (azz-ELL-us-teen) COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Astelin USES: This antihistamine medication is used to relieve symptoms related to seasonal allergies. HOW TO USE: Use exactly as directed in the illustrated instruction sheet within the package and follow directions on the prescription label. Alternate nostrils when giving yourself the medicine. The medicine usually begins working within 3 hours of use. SIDE EFFECTS: Generally the medication is well tolerated. Bitter taste, headache and drowsiness have occurred, as well as nasal burning, sneezing, and dry mouth. If these continue or are bothersome, notify your doctor. Very unlikely but report: palpitations, chest pain, anxiety, mental/mood changes, diarrhea, numbness and tingling of hands or feet, change in sense of smell, vision problems, inability to urinate, weight gain, muscle pain. An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. PRECAUTIONS: Before using this drug, tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: allergies, kidney problems, liver problems, heart disease, high blood pressure. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug is excreted into human milk. Discuss the risks of breast-feeding with your doctor. Alcohol may intensify any drowsiness effect from this drug. DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all nonprescription or prescription medication you may take, especially of: cimetidine, sleep medicines, sedatives, tranquilizers, drugs for anxiety, narcotic pain relievers, antidepressants or other psychiatric drugs (e.g., chlorpromazine, haloperidol), other antihistamines. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval. OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. NOTES: Do not share this medication with anyone else. MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not “double-up” the dose to catch up. STORAGE: Store at controlled room temperature between 68 and 77 degrees F (20-25 degrees C) away from sunlight and moisture. Protect from freezing. Keep the bottle upright with the pump tightly closed.

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Azelaic acid topical

Azelaic acid topical

Drug Name Azelaic acid topical

Azelaic acid topical Drug Category AZELAIC ACID GEL – TOPICAL

Azelaic acid topical Drug Information

IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug. AZELAIC ACID GEL – TOPICAL (ay-zeh-LAY-ick acid) COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Finacea USES: This medication is used to treat a certain skin condition called rosacea. It helps to reduce the number of inflamed skin lesions. HOW TO USE: This medication is for use on the skin only. Clean the affected area with a mild soap or soap-free cleanser and pat dry. Apply a thin layer of medication usually twice daily; or use as directed by your doctor. Gently massage it into the affected area. Wash your hands well after using this medication. Make-up may be applied after the medication has dried. Avoid getting any of this medication in the eyes or inside the nose or mouth. If it does get in your eyes, wash your eyes immediately with plenty of water. Call your doctor if eye irritation persists. Do not use large amounts or apply this product more often than directed. Your condition will not clear faster, but the chance for side effects may be increased. Improvement is usually seen within four weeks. However, it may take several weeks of continued use before the full effects of this medication are seen. Do not apply any dressing or covering over the treated area unless you are instructed to do so by your doctor. SIDE EFFECTS: Burning, stinging, tingling or itching skin may occur during the first few weeks, but then subside as your body adjusts to this medication. Rarely, excessive facial hair growth may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. This medication may infrequently cause abnormal changes in skin color (hypopigmentation). Dark-skinned individuals may notice a lightening in skin color. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for advice and report these changes if they occur. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: worsening of cold sores or fever blisters (oral herpes). Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: worsening of asthma symptoms (e.g., increased trouble breathing, increased use of quick-relief inhalers). An allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, persistent itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. PRECAUTIONS: This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: an allergy to propylene glycol. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: asthma, repeat episodes of cold sores or fever blisters (oral herpes), any allergies. Avoid any foods or liquids that may bring on redness, flushing and blushing of the skin (e.g., spicy foods, alcohol, hot drinks). This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication may pass into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding. DRUG INTERACTIONS: Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription products you may use, especially of: other skin products. Avoid use of skin care products that can cause further irritation (e.g., alcohol-containing cleansers, tinctures, astringents, abrasives and peeling agents). Consult your doctor or pharmacist for details. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval. OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. NOTES: Do not share this medication with others. MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up. STORAGE: Store at room temperature at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Brief storage between 59 to 86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) is permitted. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.

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Azathioprine sodium injection

Azathioprine sodium injection

Drug Name Azathioprine sodium injection

Azathioprine sodium injection Drug Category AZATHIOPRINE – INJECTION

Azathioprine sodium injection Drug Information

IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug. AZATHIOPRINE – INJECTION (aze-uh-THIGH-oh-preen) COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Imuran WARNING: Long-term use of this medication increases the risk of developing neoplasias (cancerous or noncancerous growths). Azathioprine can also cause blood disorders (e.g., leukopenia). Immediately notify your doctor if you develop unusual growths, easy bruising or bleeding, or signs of infection such as persistent sore throat or fever. USES: This medication alters the body’s immune system so that your body does not reject a transplanted organ. It is also used to treat severe rheumatoid arthritis after other treatments have failed to provide relief. HOW TO USE: This drug may be given by vein (IV) until you are able to take the tablet form by mouth. It is usually given once daily. Dosage is adjusted based on your condition and response. Follow all instructions for proper mixing and dilution with certain IV fluids. Consult your pharmacist. This drug product should be checked visually for particles or discoloration before use. If present, do not use the liquid. SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea/vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea or pain at the injection site may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Unlikely but report promptly: hair loss, unusual fatigue, stomach pain, joint or muscle pain, vision changes. Very unlikely but report promptly: yellowing of eyes or skin, darkened urine, unusual bleeding or bruising, lumps/growths. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, including: allergies, liver or kidney disease, blood disorders, infections. This medication can lower the body’s ability to fight an infection. Notify your doctor promptly if you develop signs of an infection such as fever, chills or persistent sore throat. This drug is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using this drug. This drug is excreted into breast milk. Because of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding. DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all nonprescription and prescription medication you use, especially of: allopurinol, drugs affecting bone marrow (e.g., cotrimoxazole, numerous anti-cancer drugs), “alkylating” type cancer drugs (e.g., melphalan, cyclophosphamide, chlorambucil), other immune suppressants (e.g., cyclosporine), “blood thinners” (e.g., warfarin, heparin), ACE inhibitors (e.g., captopril, lisinopril). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval. OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. NOTES: Do not share this medication with others. Laboratory and/or medical tests may be performed to monitor for side effects or response to treatment. MISSED DOSE: If the dose is missed, contact your doctor immediately to establish a new dosing schedule. STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 77 degrees F (15 – 25 degrees C) away from light and moisture. After mixing and dilution in IV fluids (consult your pharmacist for details), this product is stable at room temperature for 24 hours. Discard any unused portion of the vial. MEDICAL ALERT: Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).

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Azathioprine oral

Azathioprine oral

Drug Name Azathioprine oral

Azathioprine oral Drug Category AZATHIOPRINE – ORAL

Azathioprine oral Drug Information

IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug. AZATHIOPRINE – ORAL (aze-uh-THIGH-oh-preen) COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Imuran WARNING: Long-term use of this medication increases the risk of developing neoplasias (cancerous or noncancerous growths). Azathioprine can also cause blood disorders (e.g., leukopenia). Immediately notify your doctor if you develop unusual growths, easy bruising or bleeding, or signs of infection such as persistent sore throat or fever. USES: Azathioprine is used to prevent rejection of transplanted organs and for cases of severe arthritis that do not respond to other therapies. OTHER USES: This medication may also be used to treat ulcerative colitis and for other purposes as determined by your doctor. HOW TO USE: Azathioprine tablets should be taken with food or milk to prevent stomach upset. Take this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not stop taking the medication without your doctor’s approval. SIDE EFFECTS: Nausea/vomiting, loss of appetite or diarrhea may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Unlikely but report promptly: hair loss, unusual fatigue, stomach pain, joint or muscle pain, vision changes. Very unlikely but report promptly: yellowing of eyes or skin, darkened urine, unusual bleeding or bruising, unusual lumps or growths. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. PRECAUTIONS: Before you take azathioprine, tell your doctor your medical history especially if you have: liver disease, kidney disease, blood disorders, any infection, any allergies. This medication can increase your risk of developing an infection. Notify your doctor at the first sign of a possible infection (fever, persistent sore throat). Azathioprine is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using it. This drug is excreted into breast milk. Breast-feeding while using this medication is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding. DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all drugs you may use, (both prescription and nonprescription), especially of: blood thinners (e.g., warfarin, heparins), allopurinol, drugs affecting bone marrow (e.g., cotrimoxazole, numerous anti-cancer drugs), “alkylating” type cancer drugs (e.g., chlorambucil, melphalan, cyclosporine), ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval. OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. NOTES: Lab tests will be done frequently while taking this medication to monitor its effects. Do not allow anyone else to take this medication. MISSED DOSE: If you take this once daily and miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered but not if it is almost time for the next dose. Skip the missed dose and resume regular schedule. Do not double-up the dose to catch up. If you take this several times daily and miss one dose, take it as soon as you can or double-up the very next dose. If you miss more than one dose, contact your doctor. You may need to have your dosing schedule adjusted. STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom. MEDICAL ALERT: Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).

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Azatadine maleate oral

Azatadine maleate oral

Drug Name Azatadine maleate oral

Azatadine maleate oral Drug Category ANTIHISTAMINES – ORAL

Azatadine maleate oral Drug Information

IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug. ANTIHISTAMINES – ORAL USES: Antihistamines are used to treat rash, hives, watery eyes, runny nose, itching, and sneezing due to allergies or the common cold. They may also be used to treat motion sickness, anxiety, or as a sleep aid (for insomnia). HOW TO USE: May be taken with food or milk if stomach upset occurs. Sustained-release or long acting tablets and capsules must be swallowed whole. Chewing or crushing them will destroy the long action and may increase side effects. For chewable tablets, chew thoroughly and swallow. Shake suspensions well before taking. SIDE EFFECTS: May cause drowsiness, dizziness, headache, loss of appetite, stomach upset, vision changes, irritability, dry mouth and nose. These effects should subside as your body adjusts to the medication. If they persist or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop: breathing difficulties, pounding or irregular heartbeat, ringing in the ears, difficulty urinating. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: glaucoma (narrow angle), stomach ulcers, difficulty urinating (e.g., enlarged prostate), heart disease, high blood pressure, seizures, lung problems, overactive thyroid. Change from a seated or lying position slowly to avoid dizziness. Use caution in performing activities requiring alertness. Limit alcohol intake to avoid excessive drowsiness. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the effects of the drug. Do not give long-acting antihistamines to a child younger than 12 years of age nor other dose forms of antihistamines to a child younger than 6 years of age without doctor approval. This drug should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication may be excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding. DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all the medications you may use (both prescription and nonprescription), especially of: sleeping pills, sedatives, tranquilizers, muscle relaxants, medication for depression, seizure medications, narcotic pain relievers, other medications for colds/hay fever/allergies. Because this medication may affect allergy testing, you may have to stop using this medication for several days before the tests are performed. Consult your doctor about this. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval. OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose in children may include abnormal eye movements, flushed face, dry mouth, change in amount of urine, fever, excitation, agitation, bizarre behavior, confusion, restlessness, irritability, delirium, twitching, tiredness, abnormal tongue movement, trembling extremities, slurred speech, or seizures. Symptoms of overdose in adults may include drowsiness, or unconsciousness, which may be followed by excitement or seizures. NOTES: Do not share this product with others. MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take as soon as remembered; do not take if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not “double-up” the dose to catch up. STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom. Do not freeze liquid forms of this medication. MEDICAL ALERT: Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).

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Avobenzone and Octocrylene topical

Avobenzone and Octocrylene topical

Drug Name Avobenzone and Octocrylene topical

Avobenzone and Octocrylene topical Drug Category SUNSCREENS

Avobenzone and Octocrylene topical Drug Information

IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug. SUNSCREENS USES: Sunscreens are used to protect the skin from the sun preventing sunburn, premature aging, skin reactions and reducing the risk of skin cancer. HOW TO USE: Sunscreens are for topical use only. Apply liberally to all exposed skin 30 minutes before sun exposure. Reapply after swimming or excessive sweating. Wear protective eye covering. Use carefully when applying to the face. Avoid contact with the eyes. Use cautiously or avoid use on irritated skin. Do not use on infants under 6 months old. Children under 3 years should use a sunscreen with SPF of 30. SIDE EFFECTS: If a sunscreen causes redness or a rash, discontinue use. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about using a different type of sunscreen product. Some sunscreen products may stain clothing. Apply with caution. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. PRECAUTIONS: If you have any of the following health problems, consult your doctor before using this medication: PABA allergy, benzocaine allergy, sulfa drug allergy. DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take including: skin products, sulfa-drugs, tetracycline, all antibiotics. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval. OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. NOTES: There are various types of sunscreens available in cream, lotion, gel, stick and spray form. The sun produces two types of ultraviolet radiation (UV); UVA and UVB. UVA radiation causes skin damage and skin reactions to medications, soaps, cosmetics and other chemicals. UVB radiation is responsible for sunburns and skin cancer. Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is a rating that indicates the degree of protection from the sun a product provides. The higher the number, the greater the protection. An SPF of at least 15 is recommended. SPF 30 is the upper limit, meaning that numbers greater than 30 provide no greater benefit. Waterproof products provide protection after being in the water for up to 80 minutes. Water-resistant products protect for up to 40 minutes and sweat-resistant products protect for up to 30 minutes of heavy sweating. Remember too that water, sand and snow reflect the sun. MISSED DOSE: Apply sunscreens liberally and often when outdoors. STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from heat and light. It is recommended to replace sunscreen products every year as they lose potency over time.

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Aurothioglucose intramusc

Aurothioglucose intramusc.

Drug Name Aurothioglucose intramusc.

Aurothioglucose intramusc. Drug Category AUROTHIOGLUCOSE – INJECTION

Aurothioglucose intramusc. Drug Information

IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug. AUROTHIOGLUCOSE – INJECTION (are-oh-thigh-oh-GLUE-kose) COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Solganal WARNING: This medication can cause severe, even fatal, side effects including blood cell problems (decreased white blood cells and platelets). Immediately notify your doctor if you have signs of an infection (such as persistent sore throat or fever), unusual fatigue, dark or pink-reddish urine, itching, rash, mouth sores or irritation (stomatitis), or persistent diarrhea. Your doctor will be closely monitoring certain lab tests (e.g., white blood cells, platelets) before starting therapy and before you receive each injected dose or written prescription. USES: This medication is used to treat arthritis (rheumatoid) along with other medications. Also, this medication is usually used in combination with rest and physical therapy for arthritis. OTHER USES: This drug may also be used for other forms of arthritis. HOW TO USE: Shake this suspension well before using. This drug is given by injection into a muscle (IM), generally once a week initially. As treatment continues, the drug is generally given every 3-4 weeks. This should not be given by vein (IV). To minimize side effects, it is advised to be lying down when receiving this drug, and for ten minutes afterward. Beneficial effects occur slowly and 6 to 8 weeks treatment may be required before improvement occurs. Treatment is continued indefinitely, depending on any side effects and/or improvement in your condition. SIDE EFFECTS: Temporary joint pain may occur. Also, for short periods after injections, flushing, dizziness, sweating, headache or blurred vision may occur. If these persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Report promptly: itching, skin redness or rash, sore mouth, stomach upset, metallic taste, persistent diarrhea, skin color change, vaginal discomfort. Very unlikely but report promptly: unusual bleeding or bruising, pink-reddish urine, fever or persistent sore throat, unusual fatigue, yellowing eyes or skin, abdominal pain, vision changes, confusion, seizures, hair loss. In the unlikely event an allergic reaction occurs, contact your doctor immediately. Symptoms include: difficulty breathing, fainting or dizziness, swelling. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. PRECAUTIONS: Before using this drug, tell your doctor your medical history, including: allergies (especially drug allergies), blood disorders, severe high blood pressure, blood vessel or heart disease, skin rash/itching, intestinal problems (colitis), severe diabetes, lupus (SLE), cancer radiation treatment, urticaria, liver problems, kidney problems. This drug may cause sun sensitivity reactions (sunburn-like). Use sunscreens with UVA and B, and wear protective clothing. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This drug is excreted into breast milk. Because of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this drug is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding. DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all nonprescription and prescription medication you use, especially of: phenylbutazone, penicillamine, anti-cancer drugs, anti-malarials, immune suppression drugs (e.g., azathioprine). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval. OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include diarrhea, hives, and severe itching. NOTES: Laboratory tests will be done during therapy to reduce the chance of side effects. This drug may interfere with certain blood iodine tests. Do not share this medication with others. MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, consult your doctor or pharmacist promptly to establish a new dosing schedule. STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Do not freeze. MEDICAL ALERT: Your condition can cause complications in a medical emergency. For enrollment information call MedicAlert at 1-800-854-1166 (USA), or 1-800-668-1507 (Canada).

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Auranofin oral

Auranofin oral

Drug Name Auranofin oral

Auranofin oral Drug Category AURANOFIN – ORAL

Auranofin oral Drug Information

IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug. AURANOFIN – ORAL (awe-RAN-oh-fin) COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Ridaura WARNING: Rarely, this medication can cause severe (sometimes fatal) side effects including blood cell problems (decreased white blood cells and platelets). Immediately notify your doctor if you have signs of an infection (such as persistent sore throat or fever), unusual fatigue, dark or pink-reddish urine, itching, rash, mouth sores or irritation (stomatitis), or persistent diarrhea. Your doctor will be closely monitoring certain lab tests (e.g., white blood cells, platelets) before starting therapy and before you receive each injected dose or written prescription. USES: This medication is used to treat pain, swelling and stiffness associated with arthritis that is not controlled by other therapies. HOW TO USE: Take this medication as prescribed. Carefully read the patient package insert available with the product. Ask your doctor any questions you may have about this medication. It may take 3 to 4 months of therapy before the full benefits of this medication become apparent. SIDE EFFECTS: May cause stomach upset, nausea, loss of appetite, stomach cramps, gas, dizziness, weakness, sweating or flushing. If any of these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you experience any of the following: mouth sores, sore throat, metallic taste in the mouth, nosebleeds, easy or unusual bleeding or bruising. Skin rash is common with this medication. If exposed to sunlight, skin may turn blue-grey in color. Avoid prolonged sun exposure and wear protective clothing. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially: kidney or liver disease, bleeding problems or blood disorders, inflammatory bowel disease, colitis, rash, eczema, SLE (systemic lupus erythematosus), history of bone marrow depression, recent radiation therapy, any allergies. If you have a tuberculin (TB) skin test, tell the person performing the test that you take auranofin. This drug should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Injectable forms of auranofin are known to be excreted into breast milk. The manufacturer of this drug recommends you do not breast-feed while using this medication. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding. DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medications you may use, especially: other arthritis medications, phenytoin. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval. OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include hives and severe itching. NOTES: Do not allow anyone else to take your medication. It is important to maintain good oral hygiene while taking this medication. This medication can affect your blood. It is important to have regular check-ups and blood tests to monitor its effects. MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose and are taking one dose daily, take it as soon as remembered unless you do not remember until the next day. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your usual schedule. If you are taking more than one dose daily, take it as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your usual schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up. STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.

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Attapulgite oral

Attapulgite oral

Drug Name Attapulgite oral

Attapulgite oral Drug Category ATTAPULGITE – ORAL

Attapulgite oral Drug Information

IMPORTANT NOTE: The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug. ATTAPULGITE – ORAL (at-uh-PULL-gite) COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Diasorb, Donnagel, Kaopectate, Parepectolin USES: Attapulgite is used in the treatment of diarrhea. It works by absorbing fluid in the intestine. HOW TO USE: This medication is usually taken after each loose bowel movement. Follow package instructions. Chewable tablets must be chewed thoroughly before swallowing. The liquid form should be shaken well before pouring each dose. SIDE EFFECTS: This medication is generally well tolerated. Stomach upset may occur. If diarrhea is not relieved after two days of using this medication or you develop a fever or stomach cramps, notify your doctor. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have: heart disease, bowel problems, allergies. This medication should be used only if clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Consult your doctor before using any medication while breast-feeding. DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval. OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. NOTES: To maintain normal bowel habits, it is important to drink plenty of fluids (4-6 8 ounce glasses a day), eat foods high in fiber and roughage and exercise regularly. MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as remembered; do not take it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not “double-up” the dose to catch up. STORAGE: Store tablets at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from heat and light. The liquid form of this medication may be stored in the refrigerator to improve taste.

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